Tuesday, July 25, 2006

ASEAN nations call for more alternative energy

Laos joined the chorus of Asean nations calling for increased use of alternative energy amidst skyrocketing oil prices.

Asean will meet this week to discuss the regional energy situation and focus is expected on biofuels and other forms of alternative energy.

Malaysians in traditional dress hold flags of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries during the 39th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur July 25, 2006. REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad
Malaysians in traditional dress display flags of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries during the 39th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur July 25, 2006. REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad photo via Yahoo News.

Laos has invested much of its resources in hydroelectirc energy including the new Nam Theun II project due for completion in about four years.

Among Asean nations, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines are the most oil dependent. All nations in the region having been looking closely at biofuels made from coconut and palm oil.